GOP US Senate Candidate Mark Neumann Visits Racine

Republican US Senate candidate Mark Neumann had a pint and talked politics when he stopped by in on Oct. 27. His visit was the highlight of the monthly "Pints and Politics" get-together of the Republican Party of Racine County at the restaurant.

Neumann is seeking his party's nomination to run for the seat being vacated by the retiring Herb Kohl.

About 25 people were on-hand to listen to Neumann's reasons for running and to ask him questions about his platform. He spoke for a few minutes before taking questions.

"I love our country and believe our best days are ahead of us," Neumann said. "The key is that we can't spend more than we bring in, and we can balance the budget."

He outlined his top three issues: balancing the budget, repealing Obamacare and pay down the national debt.

Neumann made several references to his previous stint in Washington as the congressman from the First District, from 1995-1999, and his work to help balance the federal budget and create a surplus. Neumann said it can be done again.

"We cut taxes and spending and we balanced the budget," he said. "We can do that again. A balanced budget means the American Dream."

Ken Brown, a member of the Racine TEA Party, asked about green subsidies and if Neumann supports them.

"They need to go away," the candidate answered. "There is room for green building products and methods, but it has to be market-driven. The government should not be involved, picking winners and losers."

Peter DiGaudio asked about tax reform, and Neumann said that any proposed tax cuts have to mean cutting spending and eliminating loopholes.

"Combining those elements will generate revenue that ultimately leads to reducing taxes," he said.

David DeGroot asked what Neumann plans to do to help small businesses continue to thrive and grow.

"Tax rates and regulations are out of control," he said. "But the main reason businesses can't borrow is because the government is borrowing too heavily and if you were a bank, who would you bet on right now?"

Neumann was also asked about the tax code that allows companies to get away with paying little to no tax.

"I'm not going to be critical of businesses that are following the letter of the law and employ thousands of people," Neumann answered. "But that means the law is wrong and what's fair is that we all pay taxes."

He wrapped up by supporting the policies being implemented in Madison.

"Scott Walker is doing a great job," Neumann said. "Wisconsin is the epicenter of where the country is going. We can't have bigger government. Look, this is the greatest country in the world. Faith, family and opportunity, not guaranteed success, but the opportunity to go for it, we have it all right here."